Latest news with #MaxPalethorpe
Campaign ME
17-06-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
Sport Impact Summit teams up with HOKO for global expansion
Sport Impact Summit (SIS) has announced a strategic partnership with HOKO, the UAE-based experiential agency known for its work across sport, hospitality and AI innovation. The partnership will see HOKO lead SIS's global expansion efforts, with new editions of the Summit planned in Abu Dhabi, China, Bahrain and Singapore over the next 12 months. Following the success of SIS 2024 in Dubai, the second edition is set to take place in Abu Dhabi in December 2025. The move signals SIS's ambition to build an international presence as a platform connecting sport, sustainability and technology. Founded by Bally Singh and Max Palethorpe, HOKO has built a global reputation through its premium hospitality brand Aioka, which delivers high-end experiences for brands like Mclaren, Mercedes-Benz, Red Bull and LVMH at Formula 1 weekends in cities like Monaco, Las Vegas and Singapore. The agency also recently launched HUMAIN, an AI-powered content creation platform developed under Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. 'The collaboration with HOKO marks a pivotal moment for SIS,' said Sean Morris, Co-Founder of Sport Impact Summit. 'Bally and Max's team bring deep domain expertise in delivering world-class experiences at the intersection of sport, hospitality and innovation. The partnership will help accelerate our global expansion and enhance the brand experiences across the Sport Impact Series.' He added that with sustainability becoming an increasingly central theme in global sports and business, the alliance also supports SIS's long-term vision of delivering experiences with lasting value and real-world relevance. 'With innovation in sustainability taking centre stage in global sports and business arenas, this alliance aims to meet growing client demand for authentic and impactful sustainability solutions. HOKO's experiential expertise and deep relationships across elite sports and brand platforms create a high-impact pathway for SIS to deliver its mission worldwide,' he said. 'We've seen first-hand the growing demand from brands, rights holders, and venues to integrate sustainability into their core strategy,' said Balbinder Singh and Max Palethorpe, Founders of HOKO. 'SIS has created a bold and meaningful platform, and we're thrilled to partner with them to scale their vision globally.'
Zawya
12-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Sport Impact Summit expands global footprint through strategic partnership with HOKO
Dubai, UAE: Following the resounding success of SIS 2024, the Sport Impact Summit (SIS) is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with HOKO, the UAE-based experiential agency, known globally for its premium hospitality brand Aioka and the newly launched AI innovation platform, HUMAIN. This partnership is a bold new chapter in SIS's global growth strategy, with HOKO leading the charge to expand SIS's presence into key international markets including Abu Dhabi, China, Bahrain, and Singapore over the next 12 months. Building on its Dubai launch, SIS is planning to host the second edition of the Summit in Abu Dhabi in December 2025. Founded by Bally Singh and Max Palethorpe, HOKO has delivered iconic activations for brands like McLaren, LVMH, and Mercedes-Benz, and Red Bull. Notably, HOKO's premium hospitality brand, Aioka, has redefined luxury at Formula 1 race weekends, offering bespoke experiences in cities like Monaco, Las Vegas, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi. Furthermore, demonstrating a keen foresight into the future of content creation, HOKO launched HUMAIN – a cutting-edge AI-driven platform that merges human creativity with artificial intelligence. And that's established under Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. 'The collaboration with HOKO marks a pivotal moment for SIS,' said Sean Morris, Co-Founder of SIS. 'Bally and Max's team bring deep domain expertise in delivering world-class experiences at the intersection of sport, hospitality, and innovation. The partnership will help accelerate the global expansion into new markets as well as enhance the brand experiences across the Sport Impact Series. With innovation in sustainability taking centre stage in global sports and business arenas, this alliance aims to meet growing client demand for authentic and impactful sustainability solutions. HOKO's experiential expertise and deep relationships across elite sports and brand platforms create a high-impact pathway for SIS to deliver its mission worldwide. 'We've seen first-hand the growing demand from brands, rights holders, and venues to integrate sustainability into their core strategy,' said Balbinder Singh and Max Palethorpe, Founders of HOKO. 'SIS has created a bold and meaningful platform, and we're thrilled to partner with them to scale their vision globally.' The announcement reinforces SIS's commitment to supporting the UAE's Federal Decree-Law No. (11) of 2024 on the Reduction of Climate Change Effects, as it continues to further its mission of bridging sport, sustainability, and technology with tangible results. To learn more, please visit the websites – and About the Sport Impact Summit: The Sport Impact Summit (SIS) is a global platform at the forefront of driving sustainability, innovation, and social impact through the world of sport. Founded in the UAE, SIS brings together industry leaders, athletes, policymakers, investors, and innovators to explore how sport can be a powerful catalyst for climate action, technological advancement, and inclusive progress. Since its launch, SIS has rapidly grown into a leading voice in the global sport and sustainability movement. Its inaugural 2024 edition, held in Dubai, UAE. The event was graced by the presence of Sheikh Suhail Bin Butti Suhail Al Maktoum, Executive Director of the Sports Development Sector at the General Authority of Sports. And brought together over 200 global leaders, industry experts, and world-class athletes. The Sport Impact Summit (SIS) is on a bold mission to unite action and inspire 1 billion people to join the movement by leveraging the universal power of sport to drive meaningful change across seven transformative pillars. Innovation and Technology, Sustainable Sponsorship, Education and Communication, Human Health, Equality and Inclusion, Green Investment, and Legacy. Together, these pillars form the foundation of SIS's mission to use the power of sport to drive global impact and lasting change. Further information and media requests: For further information or to request an interview, please contact: BUZ (on behalf of Sport Impact Summit) Lawson Louis, PR Associate lawson@
Mid East Info
04-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Middle East Blockchain Awards 2025 Honours Regional Trailblazers in Web3 at Iconic Dubai Ceremony - Middle East Business News and Information
The second edition of the Middle East Blockchain Awards (MEBA) celebrated the region's leading innovators in the Web 3.0 space in a prestigious ceremony hosted in Dubai. Held on the sidelines of TOKEN2049 Dubai — the global flagship event for the Web3 and blockchain industry — the awards ceremony brought together government officials, tech pioneers, and industry leaders from around the world. This 2025 edition of MEBA goes beyond web3 and blockchain, placing AI firmly centre stage — as this transformative technology starts to revolutionize not only web3 development, but also our global digital experience. As well as awards recognising AI innovation, all in-event content and media materials were produced by Hum(AI)n assets, a brand new project which combines the speed of AI with the very best work of human creative professionals. Dubai was chosen to host the second edition of MEBA in recognition of its global leadership in digital innovation and blockchain adoption. With its advanced infrastructure, forward-thinking regulations, and strong government support, the city has rapidly become a thriving hub for Web3 enterprises and digital asset pioneers. Hosting MEBA in Dubai highlights the UAE's central role in shaping the future of technology, finance, and digital transformation on a global scale. Max Palethorpe, Founder and CEO of Hoko Agency, the official organizers of MEBA, said: 'The second edition of the Middle East Blockchain Awards marks another milestone in the region's Web3 journey. Hosting MEBA in Dubai—an epicenter for blockchain innovation—underscores the UAE's growing influence on the global digital economy. This year's winners have set new benchmarks in creativity, impact, and excellence, and we're proud to celebrate the talent shaping the future of blockchain across the Middle East. We're excited to see how this community continues to push boundaries and lead on the world stage.' A panel of esteemed experts selected the winners across each category. The panel included Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO of AI for the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and CEO of Dubai Blockchain Centre (DBCC); Jumana Al Darwish, award-winning social entrepreneur and founder of The Happy Box; Megan Plisky, Web3 leader and strategic advisor; Scott Melker, host of The Wolf of All Streets podcast and Crypto TownHall; Saqr Ereiqat, Secretary General of the Dubai Digital Assets Association and Co-Founder of Crypto Oasis; and Jorge Sebastiao, Co-Founder of the Global Blockchain Organization and EcoX. Winners announced during the MEBA ceremony were: Best GameFi Project 2025: ASTRO ARMADILLOS Best RWA Tokenization Project 2025: HASH AI Most Promising Web3 Ecosystem 2025: PROPCHAIN (powered by Best Blockchain Development Solution 2025: CHAINSIGHT Top Crypto Influencer 2025: RAN NEUNER Best Web3 Financial Community 2025: REAL VISION Most Influential Woman in Blockchain and Crypto 2025: NIKITA SACHDEV Most Promising Crypto Media Agency 2025: CREDIBILITY X Best Blockchain Analytics Solution 2025: CRYSTAL INTELLIGENCE Most Influential Person in Blockchain and Crypto 2025: ACME WORAWAT Launched to recognise and reward outstanding achievements in blockchain and Web 3.0, MEBA is organised by Hoko Agency Middle East and supported by OKX, the global blockchain technology leader and headline sponsor of the awards.
Zawya
01-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Middle East Blockchain Awards 2025 honours regional trailblazers in Web3 at Iconic Dubai Ceremony
The second edition of the MEBA, officially named a side event of TOKEN2049 Dubai, the global flagship gathering for the web3 and blockchain industry Organised by Hoko Agency Middle East, MEBA was supported by OKX, a global blockchain leader and the awards' headline sponsor. AI technology took centre stage, with all event assets generated by Hum(AI)n Assets – a fusion of AI speed and human creativity. Dubai, UAE: The second edition of the Middle East Blockchain Awards (MEBA) took place on 29 April at the iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab in Dubai, celebrating the region's leading innovators in the Web 3.0 space. Held on the sidelines of TOKEN2049 Dubai — the global flagship event for the Web3 and blockchain industry — the awards ceremony brought together government officials, tech pioneers, and industry leaders from around the world. This 2025 edition of MEBA goes beyond web3 and blockchain, placing AI firmly centre stage — as this transformative technology starts to revolutionize not only web3 development, but also our global digital experience. As well as awards recognising AI innovation, all in-event content and media materials were produced by Hum(AI)n assets, a brand new project which combines the speed of AI with the very best work of human creative professionals. Dubai was chosen to host the second edition of MEBA in recognition of its global leadership in digital innovation and blockchain adoption. With its advanced infrastructure, forward-thinking regulations, and strong government support, the city has rapidly become a thriving hub for Web3 enterprises and digital asset pioneers. Hosting MEBA in Dubai highlights the UAE's central role in shaping the future of technology, finance, and digital transformation on a global scale. Max Palethorpe, Founder and CEO of Hoko Agency, the official organizers of MEBA, said: 'The second edition of the Middle East Blockchain Awards marks another milestone in the region's Web3 journey. Hosting MEBA in Dubai—an epicenter for blockchain innovation—underscores the UAE's growing influence on the global digital economy. This year's winners have set new benchmarks in creativity, impact, and excellence, and we're proud to celebrate the talent shaping the future of blockchain across the Middle East. We're excited to see how this community continues to push boundaries and lead on the world stage.' A panel of esteemed experts selected the winners across each category. The panel included Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO of AI for the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and CEO of Dubai Blockchain Centre (DBCC); Jumana Al Darwish, award-winning social entrepreneur and founder of The Happy Box; Megan Plisky, Web3 leader and strategic advisor; Scott Melker, host of The Wolf of All Streets podcast and Crypto TownHall; Saqr Ereiqat, Secretary General of the Dubai Digital Assets Association and Co-Founder of Crypto Oasis; and Jorge Sebastiao, Co-Founder of the Global Blockchain Organization and EcoX. Winners announced during the MEBA ceremony were: Launched to recognise and reward outstanding achievements in blockchain and Web 3.0, MEBA is organised by Hoko Agency Middle East and supported by OKX, the global blockchain technology leader and headline sponsor of the awards. About Hoko Abu Dhabi Hoko Agency is a diversified and innovative company that owns and operates a diverse portfolio of businesses within the sectors of Finance, Blockchain, Entertainment, Sport and F&B. Hoko strives to be the best-in-class in each of their service lines; offering quality products, world class service and fitting solutions that go beyond the industry's expectations.
Zawya
06-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai to host second edition of Middle East Blockchain Awards as MENA drives global crypto growth
Between July 2023 and June 2024, MENA received an estimated on-chain value of $338.7 billion—accounting for 7.5% of the global transaction volume The UAE leads MENA blockchain growth, ranking third worldwide for digital currency usage Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni returns as second time judge, highlights the UAE's status as global blockchain hub Dubai, UAE: The Middle East Blockchain Awards (MEBA) returns for its second year after the success of its inaugural edition, with Dubai selected as the host city. The ceremony will take place at the iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab on April 29, coinciding with the TOKEN2049 conference. The event will unite industry leaders, innovators, and visionaries to celebrate achievements in blockchain and cryptocurrency. MEBA 2025 arrives at a pivotal moment amid the rapid acceleration of blockchain adoption across the MENA region. Recent data from Chainalysis positioned the region as the seventh-largest cryptocurrency market in the world. Between July 2023 and June 2024, MENA received an estimated on-chain value of $338.7 billion—accounting for 7.5% of the global transaction volume. Notably, the UAE has emerged as a global leader in digital asset adoption. According to Henley & Partners' latest report, the UAE ranks third worldwide in digital currency usage. Chainalysis data also revealed that the UAE received approximately $34billion in cryptocurrencies between June 2023 and July 2024, experiencing a robust 42% year-on-year growth. This is driven by the country's progressive approach to blockchain technology, with cities like Dubai establishing themselves as key innovation hubs. Max Palethorpe, Founder and CEO o f Hoko Group, the official organizers of MEBA, commented:"The Middle East Blockchain Awards provides a unique platform to recognize the incredible achievements that are driving the next wave of innovation in blockchain and digital transformation. With the UAE leading the charge in the Web 3.0 revolution, it's inspiring to see industry leaders coming together to shape the future of this dynamic industry. This year's event promises to be a true celebration of the pioneers who are pushing boundaries and setting new standards.' Returning as a judge for the second consecutive year, Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO, AI for Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and CEO of Dubai Blockchain Centre (DBCC) added: ' I am thrilled to be part of the judging panel once again and witness the rapid evolution of blockchain technologies in the MENA region. With the UAE at the forefront of this transformation, the government's forward-thinking approach, combined with the region's dynamic innovation ecosystem, is accelerating the adoption of Web 3.0 technologies. The Middle East Blockchain Awards captures this momentum and further cements the UAE's position as a global hub for blockchain excellence." Other judges of the Middle East Blockchain Awards this year include: Jumana Al Darwish, Award Winning Social Entrepreneur and Founder of Happy Box Scott Melker, Host, The Wolf of All Streets Podcast, and Crypto TownHall Mario Nawfal, Host of Largest Show on X and Founder of International Blockchain Consulting Group Saqr Ereiqat, Secretary General of Dubai Digital Assets Association and Co-Founder of Crypto Oasis Jorge Sebastiao, Co-Founder Global Blockchain Organization and Co-Founder EcoX Matthies Mende, Founder and CEO of Bonuz and Co-Founder of Dubai Blockchain Center MEBA aims to foster innovation, recognize excellence, and set new standards for blockchain and Web 3.0 projects across the region. In its inaugural edition in 2022, MEBA partnered with Abu Dhabi Global Market's flagship platform, Abu Dhabi Finance Week, and the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Crypto and Blockchain Association (MEAACBA). Submissions are now open at where participants can find additional details about the categories and the nomination process. -Ends- About Hoko Abu Dhabi Hoko Agency is a diversified and innovative company that owns and operates a diverse portfolio of businesses within the sectors of Finance, Blockchain, Entertainment, Sport and F&B. Hoko strives to be the best-in-class in each of their service lines; offering quality products, world class service and fitting solutions that go beyond the industry's expectations. For media inquires Yousef Batter Head of PR White Label Strategy
